Adaptive media transmission processing

ABSTRACT

Provided are methods and systems for processing information. In one example method a first frame of a first group of frames of an information transmission can be processed. The first frame can be encoded without reference to other frames of the information transmission. Additionally, a second frame can be processed in the first group of frames. The second frame can be processed with reference to a frame from a second group of frames of the information transmission.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATION

This application is a Continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional applicationSer. No. 13/778,852 filed on Feb. 27, 2013, herein incorporated byreference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

In traditional media playback systems, such as CD, DVD, and VCR systems,users are able to freely rewind and fast forward a media file becausethe user has the entire media file in a storage medium located at theuser's playback device. As network bandwidth continues to increase, moreusers are accessing media files through media transmission platforms.Media transmission (e.g., streaming), however, can consume large amountsof bandwidth. Providing the transmission at a faster rate can consumeeven greater amounts of bandwidth, which might not be available tousers. These and other shortcomings will be addressed by the presentdisclosure.

SUMMARY

It is to be understood that both the following general description andthe following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory onlyand are not restrictive, as claimed. Provided are methods and systemsfor processing information. In exemplary methods, a first frame of afirst group of frames of an information transmission, such as a stream,can be processed (e.g., encoded). The first frame can be processedwithout reference to other frames of the information transmission.Additionally, a second frame can be processed in the first group offrames. The second frame can be processed with reference to a frame froma second group of frames of the information transmission.

In another aspect, a request to update rendering of an informationtransmission can be received. A first frame from a first group of framesof the information transmission can be processed (e.g., decoded) basedon the request. In one aspect, the first group of frames can have atleast one frame processed without reference to other frames of theinformation transmission. Additionally, a second frame can be processedfrom one of the first group of frames of the information transmission ora second group of frames of the information transmission based on therequest. In another aspect, the second group of frames can have at leastone frame processed without reference to other frames of the informationtransmission. Furthermore, the processing of the second frame can beperformed with reference to the first frame.

In another aspect, a sequence of frames of information can be processed(e.g., encoded) into a compressed information transmission. Theinformation can have at least two groups of frames. Each group of framesof the at least two groups of frames can have at least one frameprocessed without reference to other frames of the information. Inadditional, a set of reference frames can be processed based on a firstencryption key. The set of reference frames can be frames from the atleast two groups of frames. Other frames of the information can beprocessed based on at least one second encryption key. The other framescan be frames from the at least two groups of frames not included in theset of reference frames.

Additional advantages will be set forth in part in the description whichfollows or may be learned by practice. The advantages will be realizedand attained by means of the elements and combinations particularlypointed out in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constituteapart of this specification, illustrate embodiments and together withthe description, serve to explain the principles of the methods andsystems:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary network forprocessing information;

FIG. 2A is a diagram illustrating an exemplary information transmission;

FIG. 2B is a diagram illustrating another exemplary informationtransmission;

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for processinginformation;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating another exemplary method forprocessing information;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating yet another exemplary method forprocessing information; and

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary computer in whichthe present systems and methods can operate.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before the present methods and systems are disclosed and described, itis to be understood that the methods and systems are not limited tospecific methods, specific components, or to particular implementations.It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for thepurpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended tobe limiting.

As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms“a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearlydictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” oneparticular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When sucha range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the oneparticular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, whenvalues are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent“about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms anotherembodiment. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each ofthe ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, andindependently of the other endpoint.

“Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described eventor circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includesinstances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where itdoes not.

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word“comprise” and variations of the word, such as “comprising” and“comprises,” means “including but not limited to,” and is not intendedto exclude, for example, other components, integers or steps.“Exemplary” means “an example of” and is not intended to convey anindication of a preferred or ideal embodiment. “Such as” is not used ina restrictive sense, but for explanatory purposes.

Disclosed are components that can be used to perform the disclosedmethods and systems. These and other components are disclosed herein,and it is understood that when combinations, subsets, interactions,groups, etc. of these components are disclosed that while specificreference of each various individual and collective combinations andpermutation of these may not be explicitly disclosed, each isspecifically contemplated and described herein, for all methods andsystems. This applies to all aspects of this application including, butnot limited to, steps in disclosed methods. Thus, if there are a varietyof additional steps that can be performed it is understood that each ofthese additional steps can be performed with any specific embodiment orcombination of embodiments of the disclosed methods.

The present methods and systems may be understood more readily byreference to the following detailed description of preferred embodimentsand the examples included therein and to the Figures and their previousand following description.

As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the methods andsystems may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, anentirely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software andhardware aspects. Furthermore, the methods and systems may take the formof a computer program product on a computer-readable storage mediumhaving computer-readable program instructions (e.g., computer software)embodied in the storage medium. More particularly, the present methodsand systems may take the form of web-implemented computer software. Anysuitable computer-readable storage medium may be utilized including harddisks, CD-ROMs, optical storage devices, or magnetic storage devices.

Embodiments of the methods and systems are described below withreference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations of methods,systems, apparatuses and computer program products. It will beunderstood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchartillustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams andflowchart illustrations, respectively, can be implemented by computerprogram instructions. These computer program instructions may be loadedonto a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or otherprogrammable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such thatthe instructions which execute on the computer or other programmabledata processing apparatus create a means for implementing the functionsspecified in the flowchart block or blocks.

These computer program instructions may also be stored in acomputer-readable memory that can direct a computer or otherprogrammable data processing apparatus to function in a particularmanner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readablememory produce an article of manufacture including computer-readableinstructions for implementing the function specified in the flowchartblock or blocks. The computer program instructions may also be loadedonto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to causea series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or otherprogrammable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process suchthat the instructions that execute on the computer or other programmableapparatus provide steps for implementing the functions specified in theflowchart block or blocks.

Accordingly, blocks of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrationssupport combinations of means for performing the specified functions,combinations of steps for performing the specified functions and programinstruction means for performing the specified functions. It will alsobe understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchartillustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams andflowchart illustrations, can be implemented by special purposehardware-based computer systems that perform the specified functions orsteps, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computerinstructions.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary system 100 forprocessing information. As used herein, the word “process” andvariations of the word, such as “processing” and “processed” cancomprise encoding, decoding, encrypting, decrypting, converting,linking, and the like. Those skilled in the art will appreciate thatpresent methods may be used in systems that employ both digital andanalog equipment. One skilled in the art will appreciate that providedherein is a functional description and that the respective functions canbe performed by software, hardware, or a combination of software andhardware.

In one aspect, the system 100 can comprise a content device 102. Forexample, the content device 102 can comprise a headend configured todistribute content 103 through a distribution and/or access network 104.In another aspect, the content device 102 can comprise a content serverconfigured to distribute content 103 through the network 104. In oneaspect, the content device 102 can comprise an encoding unit 106configured to process the content 103. In one aspect, the encoding unit106 can link, convert, and/or encode the content 103. For example, theencoding unit 106 can be configured to compress the content 103 todecrease the storage size of the content 103. In an aspect, the methodsand systems can utilize digital audio/video compression, such as MPEG,or any other type of compression. The Moving Pictures Experts Group(MPEG) was established by the International Standards Organization (ISO)for the purpose of creating standards for digital audio/videocompression. The MPEG experts created the MPEG-1 and MPEG-2 standards,with the MPEG-1 standard being a subset of the MPEG-2 standard. Thecombined MPEG-1, MPEG-2, and MPEG-4 standards are hereinafter referredto as MPEG, In an MPEG encoded transmission, content and other data aretransmitted in packets, which collectively make up a transport stream.Additional information regarding transport stream packets, thecomposition of the transport stream, types of MPEG tables, and otheraspects of the MPEG standards are described below. In an exemplaryembodiment, the present methods and systems can employ transmission ofMPEG packets. However, the present methods and systems are not solimited, and can be implemented using other types of transmission anddata.

In one aspect, the content device 102 can comprise an encryption unit108 configured to process the content 103. The encryption unit 108 canuse one or more encryption keys to convert the content 103 into a formatthat is generally undecipherable without the associated one or moreencryption keys. For example, the encryption unit 108 can use one ormore encryption algorithms. The encryption algorithms can provide one ormore encryption keys to encrypt and decrypt the content 103. In oneaspect, the encryption unit 108 can change the encryption key used toencrypt frames after encrypting a predefined number of frames of theinformation transmission. In another aspect described in more detailbelow, the encryption unit 108 can use different encryption keys fordifferent types of frames.

In one aspect, the network 104 can distribute signals from the contentdevice 102 to one or more user devices 110. The network 104 can comprisean optical fiber network, a coaxial cable network, a hybridfiber-coaxial network, a wireless network, a satellite system, a directbroadcast system, or any combination thereof. In one aspect, the network104 can be configured as a packet switched network such as the Internet.In another aspect, the network 104 can be configured for video on demandservices, which can comprise, for example, transmitting packets ofprocessed and/or encrypted content 103 from the content device 102 tothe user device 110 at the request of the user device 110.Correspondingly, the user device 110 can be configured to receiveprocessed and/or encrypted content 103 from the content provider 102.

In one aspect, the user device 110 can comprise a gateway or homecommunications terminal (HCT) which can decode, if needed, the signalsfor display on a display device, such as on a television set (TV) or acomputer monitor. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that thesignal can be decoded in a variety of equipment, including an HCT, acomputer, a TV, a monitor, or satellite dish. In an exemplary aspect,the methods and systems disclosed can be located within, or performedon, one or more HCT's, TV's, DVR's, home theater PC's, and the like.

As described above, the content 103 can be processed and/or encrypted bythe content device 102. Thus, the user device 110 can comprise adecoding unit 112 configured to process the encoded content 103. Theencoding unit 112 can be configured to process links, convert, and/ordecode the processed content 103. For example, the decoding unit 112 canbe configured to decompress content 103 (e.g., content encoded in MPEGor other compression format). In one aspect, the decoding unit 112 canbe configured to convert the content 103 into a format acceptable fordisplay through a display device. The user device 110 can also comprisea decryption unit 114 configured to process the encrypted content. Forexample, the decryption unit 114 can decrypt encrypted content. Thedecryption unit 114 can use an encryption key to convert the encryptedcontent 103 into a format acceptable for decoding and/or acceptable fordisplay through a display device.

In another aspect, the user device 110 can comprise a control unit 116configured to receive instructions from a user. For example, the controlunit 116 can receive an instruction (e.g., through a remote control) tochange the speed of play. The instruction to change the speed of playcan comprise an instruction to fast forward or rewind content 103 at adesired speed. As another example, the control unit 116 can receive aninstruction to change the resolution of play. The instruction can bereceived from the user or be received in response to detecting acondition of the user, user device, and/or the distribution network.Changing the resolution of play can comprise, for example, changing thenumber of frames of content received during a time period. The controlunit 116 can make a request to the content device 102 to obtain one ormore particular frames of the information transmission based on thereceived instruction.

In an exemplary embodiment, the methods and systems disclosed can belocated within one or more of the content device 102 and user device110. For example, the methods and systems disclosed can be locatedwithin the content 103, encoding unit 106, encryption unit 108, decodingunit 112, decryption unit 114, and control unit 116.

FIG. 2A is a diagram illustrating an exemplary information transmission200 (e.g., information stream). In one aspect, the informationtransmission 200 can comprise a plurality of frames 202. Each of theframes 202 can be compressed, converted, and/or linked by an encodingunit 106 at the content device 102. Though, the following descriptionmakes reference to encoding and variants thereof (e.g., encode,encoding), it should be understood that other processing (e.g., linking,converting, and/or the like) can be performed in addition to or insteadof the encoding. The frames 202 can be organized in groups 204, 206,208. For purposes of illustration, FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B show three groupsof frames, each group having four frames of the several types describedbelow. It should be understood, however, that one of ordinary skill inthe art understands that the number and type of frames in a group canvary according to the specifications of a particular embodiment.Additionally, in some aspects, one or more additional groups of framescan be between, before, and/or after the three groups of frames shown.In one aspect, the information transmission 200 can comprise a firstgroup 204, a second group 206, and a third group 208. Though the termsfirst, second, and third generally suggest temporal succession, as usedherein when referring to a group of frames or individual frames theseterms do not necessarily limit the groups of frames or individual framesto a particular temporal order. For example, the second group 206 offrames can be followed by the first group 204 of frames, and the firstgroup 204 of frames can be followed by the third group 208 of frames asshown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B.

Each group of frames can have a frame that is encoded without referenceto any other frame (herein referred to as an intra-coded frame or“I-frame”) 210. In one aspect, the I-frame 210 can be at the beginningof the group of frames. Each group of frames 204, 206, 208 can alsocomprise frames that are encoded with reference to one or more otherframes. For example, a frame can be encoded with reference to one otherframe (herein referred to as a predictive frame or “P-frame”), such asan I-frame. 212. In one aspect, a P-frame 212 can comprise differencesbetween the current frame (e.g., before encoding)and the previous frame(e.g., an I-frame). As another example, a frame can be encoded withreference to more than one other frame (herein referred to as abi-directionally predictive frame or “B-frame”) 214. In one aspect, aB-frame 214 can comprise differences between a previous frame (e.g., anI-frame or P-frame) and a current frame as well as differences betweenthe current frame and a frame following the current frame (e.g., anI-frame or P-frame).

FIG. 2B is a diagram illustrating another exemplary informationtransmission 216 (e.g., information stream). In some aspects, theinformation transmission 216 can contain some or all of the aspects ofthe information transmission 200 of FIG. 2A. Additionally, theinformation transmission 216 can comprise one or more frames encodedwith reference to a frame outside of the encoded frame's group of frames(herein referred to as a trick frame or “T-frame”) 218. In one aspect,the T-frame 218 can behave similarly to a P-frame or B-frame because theT-frame 218 can also comprise differences between a previous orsubsequent frame. Like the P-frame and B-frame, the T-frame 218 can beencoded with reference to frames within the group, but the T-frame 218can also be encoded with reference to frames outside of the group offrames in which a T-frame 218 is located. For example, frame 220 can beencoded with reference to frame 218. In another aspect, frame 220 can beencoded with reference to frame 218 and frame 219. Thus, T-frames can beencoded with reference to other T-frames. In another aspect, T-framescan be encoded with reference an I-frame. For example, frame 220 can beencoded with reference to frame 222. As a further example, frame 220 canbe encoded with reference to frame 222 and frame 219.

In one aspect, T-frames 218 can be embedded at regular intervals in theinformation transmission 216. As an example, T-frames 218 can be encodedsuch that the T-frames 218 function as frames in the informationtransmission 216 used during regular (e.g., 1× speed) play of theinformation transmission 216. In such a configuration, additional memorycan, in some aspects, be employed at the user device to retain theframes referenced by the T-frames 218 to enable regular playback. On theother hand, less storage space can be used by the content device becauseadditional files to support playback at different speeds can beeliminated. As another example, T-frames 218 can be embedded in aninformation transmission 216 such that the T-frames 218 are not used inordinary playback of the information transmission 216. In thisconfiguration, the information transmission 216 can comprise some framesthat duplicate information from other frames. In other words, eachT-frame 218 can potentially provide duplicate information to a P-frameor B-frame.

For the sake of simplicity, the T-frames 218 shown in FIG. 2B are placedin the information transmission 216 approximately every five frames, butthe interval between T-frames 218 can vary according to the purpose ofthe T-frame 218. For example, frame 219 as shown is 6 frames away fromframe 220. In some aspects, when the T-frame would otherwise replace anI-frame, the T-frame can be encoded proximate (e.g., directly before orafter) the I-frame to avoid replacing the I-frame. For example, aT-frame 218 can be used to facilitate fast forward and/or rewind modesat the user device. Accordingly, the speed of the fast forward and/orrewind mode can determine the number of frames between each T-frame 218.For example, one or more sets of T-frames 218 can be encoded into aninformation transmission 216. Each set of T-frames 218 can correspond toa particular speed of play of the information transmission 216. EachT-frame 218 of the set of T-frames 218 can be spaced further apart inthe information transmission for higher speed of play or closer togetherin the information transmission for a lower speed of play. For example,a set of T-frames 218 for 10× fast forward mode can be spaced 5 timesfurther apart in the information transmission than a set of T-frames 218for a 2× fast forward mode.

In another aspect, a set of T-frames 218 can correspond to a resolutionof playback. For example, if a user device requests a lower resolutionof play, the user device can receive a specified set of T-frames 218 inan information transmission 216 instead of the entire informationtransmission 216. Playing the specified set of T-frames 218 at normalspeed can provide the user device with fewer frames per second,resulting in less resolution than the full transmission provides.Depending on the requested resolution, the user device can receive a setof T-frames 218 spaced by certain number of frames in the informationtransmission 216 for a lower resolution or spaced even further apart inthe information transmission 216 for an even lower resolution.

As noted above, the content device can also encrypt the frames. In oneaspect, the T-frames 218 can be encrypted with a key that rotates lessfrequently than every block. For example, if the content device cyclesencryption keys every X number of seconds of playback and several groupsof frames are transmitted as blocks that are X seconds in length, then,in some encryption schemes, every new block can be given a newencryption key. The T-frames 218, however, can be encrypted with one ormore encryption keys different that than the other frames of theinformation transmission 216. For example, the content device can use asingle encryption key for all T-frames 218 of a given set of T-frames218. As another example, the content provider can cycle the encryptionkeys used for encrypting the T-frames 218 according to a pre-definedrate. In one aspect, the predefined rate can comprise a ratio of (i) aframe rate multiplied by a time interval to retain an encryption key and(ii) a number of reference frames per second. As an illustration, if theframe rate is X frames per second, the time interval is Y number ofseconds, and there are Z number of T-frames 218 (or reference for theT-frame) per second, then the encryption key for the T-frames 218 can bechanged every X multiplied by Y divided by Z seconds.

In another aspect, the user device can be configured to playback only aportion of the information transmission 216 by playing one or moreT-frames 218. For example, the user device can request particularT-frames 218 as well any additional frames referenced by an encodedT-frame 218. These particular frames can be requested, for example,according to each frame's byte offset. Thus, the user device can avoiddownloading the entire information transmission 216 and/or entire blocksof the information transmission 216 in order to access a subset ofT-frames used for playback at a particular resolution or speed of play.Additionally, since the encryption key can be cycled at a different ratefor the T-frames 218, the user device can avoid downloading a differentencryption key for each T-frame 218 (e.g., the encryption key used byother frames in the block where the T-frame 218 is located) whileplaying the one or more T-frames 218.

It should be noted that FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B show various frames withlabels such as “I” (meaning I-frame), “P” (meaning P-frame), “B”(meaning B-frame), and “T” (meaning T-frame). Those of ordinary skill inthe art will understand that these labels are for illustration purposesand are not intended to limit the invention to any of these specificembodiments. The type of encoding used can vary according to the contentencoded, the encoding algorithm, and various other relevant factors.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method 300 forprocessing (e.g., encoding, decoding, encrypting, decrypting, linking,converting, and/or the like) information. In step 302, a first frame ofa first group of frames of an information transmission (e.g.,information stream) can be processed. In one aspect, the first frame canbe processed without reference to other frames of the informationtransmission. For example, the first frame can be an I-frame. Theinformation transmission can comprise a video transmission (e.g., videostream), audio transmission (e.g., audio stream), file transmission(e.g., file stream), and the like. In step 304, a second frame in thefirst group of frames can be processed. The second frame can beprocessed with reference to a frame from a second group of frames of theinformation transmission. In one aspect, the first group, second group,and other groups (e.g., groups described in FIG. 3 through FIG. 5) caneach be a group of frames or pictures (GOP) of an encoded MPEG stream.For example, the second group of frames can be processed before thefirst group of frames. Though the second group can be processed beforethe first group of frames, in some aspects, one or more other groups offrames can be processed between the second group and the first group offrames. Additionally, processing the second frame with reference to theframe from a second group of frames can comprise processing a differencebetween the second frame and at least the frame from the second group offrames.

In one aspect, the frame from the second group of frames can beprocessed without reference to other frames of the informationtransmission. For example, the frame from the second group of frames canbe an I-frame. Alternatively, the frame from the second group of framescan be processed with reference to at least one fourth frame of theinformation transmission. In this case, the frame from the second groupof frames can be a P-frame, B-frame, or the like.

In step 306, the third frame can be processed with reference to a framefrom one of the first group of frames or the second group of frames. Instep 308, the first group of frames can be processed. In one aspect, thesecond frame can be processed (e.g., encrypted, decrypted) with a firstencryption key. Additionally, at least one other frame of the firstgroup of frames can be processed (e.g., encrypted, decrypted) with asecond encryption key. In some aspect, additional encryption keys can beutilized to process the first group of frames. In step 310, a thirdgroup of frames of the information transmission can be processed. Forexample, the third group of frames can comprise a third frame processed(e.g., encrypted, decrypted) with the first encryption key.

Furthermore, it should be noted that, the first group of frames can beseparated from the second group of frames by one or more fourth group offrames of the information transmission. By way of example, the number offrames between the second frame and the third frame in the informationtransmission can be determined by at least one of a speed to play theinformation transmission or a resolution to play the informationtransmission. Thus, if the speed of play is set to X times regular speed(e.g., when the user is fast forwarding or rewinding the transmission),then the second and third frames can be separated by more frames than ifthe speed of play is set to regular speed. In some scenarios, the usermay also desire to receive content at a lower resolution. For example,if the user is only partially paying attention to the content (e.g.,driving in a vehicle, moving around a room, or other activity whilelistening to and perhaps occasionally viewing a video transmission), theuser device can be configured to receive content at a lower resolution.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating another exemplary method forprocessing (e.g., encoding, decoding, encrypting, decrypting, linking,converting, and/or the like) information. In step 402, a request toupdate rendering of an information transmission (e.g., informationstream) can be received. As an example, a request can be received toupdate at least one of a speed of play, a resolution of play, or adirection of play. The information transmission can comprise a videotransmission (e.g., video stream), audio transmission (e.g., audiostream), file transmission (e.g., file stream), and the like. In step404, a first frame from a first group of frames of the informationtransmission can be processed based on the request. The first group offrames can have at least one frame processed without reference to otherframes of the information transmission (e.g., an I-frame). In step 406,a second frame can be processed from one of the first group of frames ofthe information transmission or a second group of frames of theinformation transmission based on the request. The second group offrames can have at least one frame processed without reference to otherframes of the information transmission (e.g. an I-frame). In one aspect,the processing of the second frame can be performed with reference tothe first frame. For example, processing the second frame with referenceto the first frame can comprise decoding and/or otherwise processing thesecond frame based on a difference between at least the first frame andthe second frame.

In one aspect, the information transmission can be decrypted. In step408, the first frame and the second frame can be processed (e.g.,encrypted, decrypted) according to a first encryption key. In step 410,at least one other frame of the information transmission can beprocessed (e.g., encrypted, decrypted) according to at least one secondencryption key. In one aspect, the at least one other frame of theinformation transmission can comprise a frame of one of the first groupof frames or the second group of frames.

In step 412, a sequence of frames of the information transmission can beprovided. For example, the sequence of frames can comprise the firstframe and the second frame. The sequence of frames can represent theinformation transmission for at least one of a speed of play or aresolution of play. In one aspect, the first frame can be separated fromthe second frame by a specified number of frames in the informationtransmission. The specified number can be determined by at least one ofthe speed of play of the information transmission or the resolution ofplay of the information transmission. Accordingly, the first group offrames can be separated from the second group of frames by one or morethird group of frames of the information transmission.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating yet another exemplary method forprocessing (e.g., encoding, decoding, encrypting, decrypting, linking,converting, and/or the like) information. In one aspect, the informationcan comprise a video, audio, text, a file, and the like. In step 502, asequence of frames of information can be processed into a compressedinformation transmission (e.g., compressed information stream). Thus,the compressed information transmission can comprise a compressed videotransmission, audio transmission, text data transmission, filetransmission, and the like. The information can have at least two groupsof frames. Additionally, each group of frames of the at least two groupsof frames can have at least one frame processed (e.g., encoded) withoutreference to other frames of the information. As an example, in step502, a set of reference frames can be processed. Each frame of the setof reference frames can be processed with reference to at least onerespective basis frame. Additionally, each respective basis frame can bein a corresponding group of frames of the at least two groups of frames,and each corresponding group of frames can comprise frames other thanthe corresponding frame of the set of references frames. For example, atleast one frame of the set of reference frames can be located in a groupof frames of the at least two groups of frames different from thecorresponding group of frames. For example, processing each referenceframe with reference to at least one basis frame can comprise encodingand/or otherwise processing a difference in information between thereference frame and the respective basis frame.

In step 504, the set of reference frames can be processed based on afirst encryption key. In one aspect, the set of reference frames can beframes from the at least two groups of frames. Alternatively, a portionof the set of reference frames can be processed based on a secondencryption key instead of the first encryption key. The portion of theset of reference frames can be selected based on a predefined rate forupdating encryption keys. In one aspect, the predefined rate cancomprise a ratio of (i) a frame rate multiplied by a time interval toretain an encryption key and (ii) a number of reference frames persecond.

In step 506, other frames of the information transmission can beprocessed based on at least one second encryption key. The other framescan be frames from the at least two groups of frames not included in theset of reference frames. In step 508, the at least two groups of framescan be transmitted as one or more blocks of frames over a networkconnection. Each block of frames can comprise one or more groups offrames of the at least two groups of frames. In one aspect, the numberof the one or more groups of frames on each block of frames canfluctuate based on the quality of the network connection. In one aspect,the set of reference frames can represent the information for at leastone of a speed of play or a resolution of play. For example, each frameof the set of reference frames can be separated by a specified number offrames in the information. Accordingly, the specified number can bedetermined by at least one of a speed of play or a resolution of play.

In an exemplary aspect, the methods and systems can be implemented on acomputer 601 as illustrated in FIG. 6 and described below. By way ofexample, content device 102 of FIG. 1 can be a computer as illustratedin FIG. 6. Similarly, the methods and systems disclosed can utilize oneor more computers to perform one or more functions in one or morelocations. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary operatingenvironment for performing the disclosed methods. This exemplaryoperating environment is only an example of an operating environment andis not intended to suggest any limitation as to the scope of use orfunctionality of operating environment architecture. Neither should theoperating environment be interpreted as having any dependency orrequirement relating to any one or combination of components illustratedin the exemplary operating environment.

The present methods and systems can be operational with numerous othergeneral purpose or special purpose computing system environments orconfigurations. Examples of well-known computing systems, environments,and/or configurations that can be suitable for use with the systems andmethods comprise, but are not limited to, personal computers, servercomputers, laptop devices, and multiprocessor systems. Additionalexamples comprise set top boxes, programmable consumer electronics,network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, distributed computingenvironments that comprise any of the above systems or devices, and thelike.

The processing of the disclosed methods and systems can be performed bysoftware components. The disclosed systems and methods can be describedin the general context of computer-executable instructions, such asprogram modules, being executed by one or more computers or otherdevices. Generally, program modules comprise computer code, routines,programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that performparticular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Thedisclosed methods can also be practiced in grid-based and distributedcomputing environments where tasks are performed by remote processingdevices that are linked through a communications network. In adistributed computing environment, program modules can be located inboth local and remote computer storage media including memory storagedevices,

Further, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the systems andmethods disclosed herein can be implemented via a general-purposecomputing device in the form of a computer 601. The components of thecomputer 601 can comprise, but are not limited to, one or moreprocessors or processing units 603, a system memory 612, and a systembus 613 that couples various system components including the processor603 to the system memory 612. In the case of multiple processing units603, the system can utilize parallel computing.

The system bus 613 represents one or more of several possible types ofbus structures, including a memory bus or memory controller, aperipheral bus, an accelerated graphics port, and a processor or localbus using any of a variety of bus architectures. By way of example, sucharchitectures can comprise an Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus,a Micro Channel Architecture (MCA) bus, an Enhanced ISA (EISA) bus, aVideo Electronics Standards Association (VESA) local bus, an AcceleratedGraphics Port (AGP) bus, and a Peripheral Component Interconnects (PCI),a PCI-Express bus, a Personal Computer Memory Card Industry Association(PCMCIA), Universal Serial Bus (USB) and the like. The bus 613, and allbuses specified in this description can also be implemented over a wiredor wireless network connection and each of the subsystems, including theprocessor 603, a mass storage device 604, an operating system 605,transmission software 606, transmission data 607, a network adapter 608,system memory 612, an Input/Output Interface 610, a display adapter 609,a display device 611, and a human machine interface 602, can becontained within one or more remote computing devices 614 a,b,c atphysically separate locations, connected through buses of this form, ineffect implementing a fully distributed system.

The computer 601 typically comprises a variety of computer readablemedia. Exemplary readable media can be any available media that isaccessible by the computer 601 and comprises, for example and not meantto be limiting, both volatile and non-volatile media, removable andnon-removable media. The system memory 612 comprises computer readablemedia in the form of volatile memory, such as random access memory(RAM), and/or non-volatile memory, such as read only memory (ROM). Thesystem memory 612 typically contains data such as transmission data 607and/or program modules such as operating system 605 and transmissionsoftware 606 that are immediately accessible to and/or are presentlyoperated on by the processing unit 603.

In another aspect, the computer 601 can also comprise otherremovable/non-removable, volatile/non-volatile computer storage media.By way of example, FIG. 6 illustrates amass storage device 604 which canprovide non-volatile storage of computer code, computer readableinstructions, data structures, program modules, and other data for thecomputer 601. For example and not meant to be limiting, a mass storagedevice 604 can be a hard disk, a removable magnetic disk, a removableoptical disk, magnetic cassettes or other magnetic storage devices,flash memory cards, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or otheroptical storage, random access memories (RAM), read only memories (ROM),electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and thelike.

Optionally, any number of program modules can be stored on the massstorage device 604, including by way of example, an operating system 605and transmission software 606. Each of the operating system 605 andtransmission software 606 (or some combination thereof) can compriseelements of the programming and the transmission software 606.Transmission data 607 can also be stored on the mass storage device 604.Transmission data 607 can be stored in any of one or more databasesknown in the art. Examples of such databases comprise, DBR®, Microsoft®Access, Microsoft® SQL Server, Oracle®, mySQL, PostgreSQL, and the like.The databases can be centralized or distributed across multiple systems.

In another aspect, the user can enter commands and information into thecomputer 601 via an input device (not shown). Examples of such inputdevices comprise, but are not limited to, a keyboard, pointing device(e.g., a “mouse”), a microphone, a joystick, a scanner, tactile inputdevices such as gloves, and other body coverings, and the like These andother input devices can be connected to the processing unit 603 via ahuman machine interface 602 that is coupled to the system bus 613, butcan be connected by other interface and bus structures, such as aparallel port, game port, an IEEE 1394 Port (also known as a Firewireport), a serial port, or a universal serial bus (USB).

In yet another aspect, a display device 611 can also be connected to thesystem bus 613 via an interface, such as a display adapter 609. It iscontemplated that the computer 601 can have more than one displayadapter 609 and the computer 601 can have more than one display device611. For example, a display device can be a monitor, an LCD (LiquidCrystal Display), or a projector. In addition to the display device 611,other output peripheral devices can comprise components such as speakers(not shown) and a printer (not shown) which can be connected to thecomputer 601 via Input/Output Interface 610. Any step and/or result ofthe methods can be output in any form to an output device. Such outputcan be any form of visual representation, including, but not limited to,textual, graphical, animation, audio, tactile, and the like. The display611 and computer 601 can be part of one device, or separate devices.

The computer 601 can operate in a networked environment using logicalconnections to one or more remote computing devices 614 a,b,c. By way ofexample, a remote computing device can be a personal computer, portablecomputer, smartphone, a server, a router, a network computer, a peerdevice or other common network node, and so on. Logical connectionsbetween the computer 601 and a remote computing device 614 a,b,c can bemade via a network 615, such as a local area network (LAN) and/or ageneral wide area network (WAN). Such network connections can be througha network adapter 608. A network adapter 608 can be implemented in bothwired and wireless environments. Such networking environments areconventional and commonplace in dwellings, offices, enterprise-widecomputer networks, intranets, and the Internet.

For purposes of illustration, application programs and other executableprogram components such as the operating system 605 are illustratedherein as discrete blocks, although it is recognized that such programsand components reside at various times in different storage componentsof the computing device 601, and are executed by the data processor(s)of the computer. An implementation of transmission software 606 can bestored on or transmitted across some form of computer readable media.Any of the disclosed methods can be performed by computer readableinstructions embodied on computer readable media. Computer readablemedia can be any available media that can be accessed by a computer. Byway of example and not meant to be limiting, computer readable media cancomprise “computer storage media” and “communications media.” “Computerstorage media” comprise volatile and non-volatile, removable andnon-removable media implemented in any methods or technology for storageof information such as computer readable instructions, data structures,program modules, or other data. Exemplary computer storage mediacomprises, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory orother memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or otheroptical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic diskstorage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which canbe used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by acomputer.

The methods and systems can employ artificial intelligence techniquessuch as machine learning and iterative learning. Examples of suchtechniques include, but are not limited to, expert systems, case basedreasoning, Bayesian networks, behavior based AI, neural networks, fuzzysystems, evolutionary computation (e.g., genetic algorithms), swarmintelligence (e.g., ant algorithms), and hybrid intelligent systems(e.g., Expert inference rules generated through a neural network orproduction rules from statistical learning).

While the methods and systems have been described in connection withpreferred embodiments and specific examples, it is not intended that thescope be limited to the particular embodiments set forth, as theembodiments herein are intended in all respects to be illustrativerather than restrictive.

Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that anymethod set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps beperformed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method claim doesnot actually recite an order to be followed by its steps or it is nototherwise specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that thesteps are to be limited to a specific order, it is no way intended thatan order be inferred, in any respect. This holds for any possiblenon-express basis for interpretation, including: matters of logic withrespect to arrangement of steps or operational flow; plain meaningderived from grammatical organization or punctuation; the number or typeof embodiments described in the specification.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that variousmodifications and variations can be made without departing from thescope or spirit. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled inthe art from consideration of the specification and practice disclosedherein. It is intended that the specification and examples be consideredas exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit being indicated by thefollowing claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: transmitting at least aportion of a video transmission comprising a plurality of framesorganized as groups of frames, wherein the groups of frames comprise afirst group of frames and a second group of frames separate from thefirst group of frames, and wherein each group of frames begins with arespective intra-coded frame that is encoded without reference to otherframes of the plurality of frames, and wherein the first group of framesand the second group of frames each comprise a respective predictiveframe and a respective bi-directionally predictive frame; receiving aninstruction to change a playback parameter of the video transmission;determining a trick frame associated with the playback parameter,wherein the trick frame is in the first group of frames and encoded withreference to a second frame in the second group of frames, and whereinthe trick frame is separated from the second frame by a number of framesrelated to the playback parameter; and using at least the trick frame inresponse to the instruction to change the playback parameter of thevideo transmission.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the playbackparameter comprises a playback direction.
 3. The method of claim 1,wherein the first group of frames is separated from the second group offrames by at least one third group of frames.
 4. The method of claim 1,wherein the second frame is an additional trick frame.
 5. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the trick frame belongs to a group of trick framesdistributed at a regular interval throughout the video transmission,wherein the regular interval is related to the playback parameter. 6.The method of claim 1, wherein the trick frame comprises informationduplicated from another frame within the first group of frames.
 7. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the trick frame and the second frame areencrypted according to a first encryption key and at least one otherframe of the first group of frames is encrypted according to a secondencryption key.
 8. A method comprising: transmitting at least a portionof a video transmission comprising a plurality of frames organized asgroups of frames, wherein the groups of frames comprise a first group offrames and a second group of frames separate from the first group offrames, and wherein each group of frames begins with a respectiveintra-coded frame that is encoded without reference to other frames ofthe plurality of frames, and wherein the first group of frames and thesecond group of frames each comprise a respective predictive frame and arespective bi-directionally predictive frame; receiving an instructionto change a playback speed of the video transmission; determining atrick frame associated with the playback speed, wherein the trick frameis in the first group of frames and encoded with reference to a secondframe in the second group of frames, and wherein the trick frame isseparated from the second frame by a number of frames related to theplayback speed; and using at least the trick frame in response to theinstruction to change the playback speed of the video transmission. 9.The method of claim 8, wherein receiving the instruction to change theplayback speed of the video transmission comprises receiving a requestfrom a user to change the playback speed.
 10. The method of claim 8,wherein the first group of frames is separated from the second group offrames by at least one third group of frames.
 11. The method of claim 8,wherein the second frame is an additional trick frame.
 12. The method ofclaim 8, wherein the trick frame belongs to a group of trick framesdistributed at a regular interval throughout the video transmission,wherein the regular interval is related to the playback speed.
 13. Themethod of claim 8, wherein using at least the trick frame in response tothe instruction to change the playback speed of the video transmissioncomprises transmitting the trick frame without transmitting all of theframes of the first group of frames.
 14. The method of claim 8, whereinthe trick frame and the second frame are encrypted according to a firstencryption key and at least one other frame of the first group of framesis encrypted according to a second encryption key.
 15. A methodcomprising: transmitting at least a portion of a video transmissioncomprising a plurality of frames organized as groups of frames, whereinthe groups of frames comprise a first group of frames and a second groupof frames separate from the first group of frames, and wherein eachgroup of frames begins with a respective intra-coded frame that isencoded without reference to other frames of the plurality of frames,and wherein the first group of frames and the second group of frameseach comprise a respective predictive frame and a respectivebi-directionally predictive frame; determining to change a playbackresolution of the video transmission; determining a trick frameassociated with the playback resolution, wherein the trick frame is inthe first group of frames and encoded with reference to the second framein the second group of frames, and wherein the trick frame is separatedfrom the second frame by a number of frames related to the playbackresolution; and using at least the trick frame in response to thedetermining to change the playback resolution of the video transmission.16. The method of claim 15, wherein determining to change the playbackresolution of the video transmission comprises determining that a userreceiving the video transmission is passively watching or not watchingrendering of the video transmission.
 17. The method of claim 15, whereinthe first group of frames is separated from the second group of framesby at least one third group of frames.
 18. The method of claim 15,wherein the second frame is an additional trick frame.
 19. The method ofclaim 15, wherein the trick frame belongs to a group of trick framesdistributed at a regular interval throughout the video transmission,wherein the regular interval is related to the playback resolution. 20.The method of claim 15, wherein using at least the trick frame inresponse to the determining to change the playback resolution of thevideo transmission comprises transmitting the trick frame withouttransmitting all of the frames of the first group of frames.